Originally published in the Wimmera Mail Times.

By Rebekah Andrews

Young voices from Horsham were heard at state parliament this week.

Six students from Horsham College participated in the 2016 YMCA Youth Parliament program.

The Horsham team joined 120 other young people from across the state to debate issues important to them.

Each year, youth parliament provides a platform for the voices of passionate young people to be heard.

The Horsham College team presented a bill designed to increase support for veterans, including government funded counselling services, housing and employment resources.

Participant Ash Armstrong said most people knew of someone who had returned from serving their country and could do with more support to get back to civilian life.

Danie Sasuman said the youth parliament program empowered its participants.

“We feel like we can achieve change, like we actually have the power to do it, rather than try and to have no one take us seriously.” Danie said.

The veteran’s support bill tabled by the Horsham team passed with a unanimous vote.

The bill will now be passed to Minister for Youth Jenny Mikakos for consideration.

In the youth parliament’s 30-year history, 25 bills tabled by students have gone on to influence state legislation.